Mariners vs Red Sox Preview

The Red Sox hope to feed off of last nights win as they take on the Mariners tonight. On the bump for the Sox is their Ace Dice K aka Ace K who is coming off of 2 hits off of his last 15 innings against, for Seattle they turn to Jason Vargas who is 0-2 with a 5.53 era.

This is a good offense to go against after facing a decent Orioles line up. The Mariners are allergic to offense and if it wasn't for Felix Hernandez or Michael Pineda no one would be excited about this team. Their only offensive player is Justin Smoak who has been on a tear recently, but if we don't kill ourselves with walks our letting Ichiro or Figgins tear up the basepaths we should be alright.

Sox win 6-0
Tommy Award: Dice K

Why Not?

Why not watch some good old fashioned father/son time?

Father Son Slap Fight - watch more funny videos

Cardinals About To Sign QB?

"In a press conference Thursday night, Arizona Cardinals general manager Rod Graves was asked specifically about the rumor that the team had an "understanding" with impending free agent Marc Bulger. Graves passed the mic to head coach Ken Whisenhunt, who grinned before saying, "I don't know anything about that," according to Bob McManaman of the Arizona Republic (ESPN)."

They aren't allowed to have a deal yet, but it certainly seems like Bulger is going to be the QB of the Cardinals. Bulger was good for a couple of years in St. Louis, then got banged around a lot and fell apart. Maybe if the Cardinals can protect him, he can turn it all around. I mean Bulger has some great WRs to work with, so it could happen. If I was them I would feel a lot better going after someone like McNabb or Kolb, because Bulger is already 34, and it's been awhile since he has been "good". Still, it's an upgrade over anything they have, so I guess it makes sense.

Thoughts On Patriots Draft

DP labeled the Patriots as "losers" in the first day of the draft, and in many ways I think he is right, but after thinking about it for awhile, I think I am starting see a strategy and if what I am thinking is true I really like it.

I am not going to sit here and tell you I know the first thing about offensive lineman, and that includes the ones in the NFL. The only time I notice them is when they get toasted and Brady is laying dead on the field. So, there first pick filled a need, because Light is most likely gone, and they are getting very thin up front.

The Patriots traded their 2nd pick, which turned out to be Ingram. I like Ingram, but here is what I think the Patriots are looking to do in the 2nd round, which they now have 3 picks in.

- Their first pick I actually think they are going to trade. There are rumors the Bengals were desperately trying to move up into Green Bay's spot (last pick 1st round), so it stands to reason that they might try the same with the Patriots (1st pick 2nd round). This is especially true because the Bills pick right before the Bengals, which is another team that could grab a QB. If that's true the Patriots could have yet another first round pick in next year along with another pick in this years draft.

- With the other picks I see two things happening. They Patriots will draft their pass rushing OLB/DE, which could be someone like Brooks Reed, Akeem Ayers, or Bowers. Any of these players I could justify going in the 1st round and would be happy to have on the squad.

- The other pick they will make will be RB Mikel Leshoure, or Ryan Williams. Also, both of these guys I would be fine with, and some people actually like Leshoure more then Ingram. I don't know if I would take it that far, but I do like him.

All of this is obviously speculation, but if they were able to do these three things today you would quickly have to say the Patriots had one of the better drafts in the NFL.

Derek Lowe Gets DUI

"The Georgia State Patrol says Atlanta Braves pitcher Derek Lowe has been charged with drunken driving. State Patrol spokesman Gordy Wright says a trooper stopped the 37-year-old Lowe's vehicle about 10 p.m. Thursday on an Atlanta street.

Wright says that during the course of the traffic stop, the trooper detected an odor of an alcoholic beverage and administered a field sobriety test and Lowe was arrested. Wright says Lowe declined to take a breath test. He says Lowe was charged with DUI, reckless driving and improper lane change. He was released, and Wright didn't know if Lowe had an attorney (WEEI)."

From his time time the Sox this shouldn't be all that shocking, there were always rumors about Lowe having a drinking problem, and being very hungover on days he wasn't pitching. The Braves organization has had a rough week, they already had a coach making homophobic remark and scaring kids, and now you have one of your top pitcher getting a DUI. I doubt much will come of this, but it's just another distraction.

What I'll Be Eating This Weekend

Totchos
Tater Tots covered in ground beef, jalapeño peppers, cheese, salsa and sour cream.

Names To Look For In Round 2

DaQuan Bowers, DE, Clemson
DaQuan Bowers was supposed to be the number 1 pick, but knee issues have curbed that. This kid has 1st round talent if healthy and he will. Anyone who gets him at this point got an absolute steal.

Brooks Reed, DE/OLB, Arizona
Any team that needs a filler in those positions (Ahem Patriots, ahem) this would be the guy you want. He's ferocious, has long flowing hair and is a smart kid. He can fill in at DE, but is more of an OLB. He again would be 1st round talent in the 2nd round.

Aaron Williams CB/S Texas, Brandon Harris CB, Miami
Both really good corners. I like these guys as much as Prince Africa Giants pick. Anyone who picks either will be very happy they fell to him.

Ryan Mallett QB, Arkansas
Biggest arm in the draft, kind of a douche

Andy Dalton QB TCU
Way better of a choice than Christian Ponder

Colin Kaepernick, QB, Nevada
A personal favorite for me, have been bragging about him for years, wild card.

WR's Titus Young Boise St, Randall Cobb Kentucky
Two really talented guys. If Cobb had a QB in college he would have been a top 10 pick.

The Magic Are Fucking Gone

Well Danny's plan in the East has held true. We aren't going against the Magic so we won't have to worry about any big time centers in the East. But on to the Magic who are in complete disarray. They are Stuck with Gilbert Arenas, they have Dwight Howard with 1 year left on his deal, a lame duck (but entertaining) head coach in Stan Van Gundy and their 3 point or bust strategy just doesn't seem to be working.

I don't know what they are going to do, but the future doesn't look good in Orlando. But after a 4-2 loss in the playoffs to the Hawks my bold prediction is that Otis Smith will once again blow up there team and maybe Howard will be in a different uniform next year.

As for the Hawks, please tire out the Bulls as I have a feeling they will have no trouble with you.

Steve Lavin Has God's Gift

God's Gift Achiuwa -- a 6-foot-9 power forward and first-team juco All-American from Erie (N.Y.) Community College -- is the ninth player to commit to the Red Storm for next season. St. John's has the No. 3-ranked recruiting class, according to ESPN Insider's top 25. ESPN

I don't care about anything but his name. He's going to be sick. Hope the Celtics draft him. Crazy Africans.

Day 1 Winners and Losers

Winners:
New Orleans Saints:
Filthy draft. First the pick up DE from Cal Cameron Jordan and then they got a gift from the Patriots and selected the best RB in the draft in Mark Ingram from Alabama. They fill two holes in their roster. They strengthen their D Line and then will have a lot to work with at rb with Reggie Bush and Mark Ingram.

Carolina Panthers:
Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
I was hesitant to like this pick, but I completely flip flopped on this. I think this kid is the real deal and will win this team some ball games. He's big, athletic and has a cannon. He's not your typical athletic QB who looks to run before pass, he passes pretty well. The Panthers have a lot of holes, but their future looks brighter with Newton behind center.

Baltimore Ravens:
Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
The only reason he fell was due to off field issues, but this kid is 1A to Patrick Peterson. He's big at 6'2 and just as athletic as Peterson. The Ravens needed some defensive backfield help and got a big time player in Smith. I was really hoping he would fall to the Steelers.

Losers:
New England Patriots:
They had 2 picks to fill pretty glaring needs. I like Nate Solder the OL out of Colorado. He is huge and could be really good. Plus with Logan Mankins drama coming up and Matt Light retiring (maybe) but he's a project. Anthony Costonzo out of BC and Danny Watkins from Baylor have higher ceilings than Solder. I understand the position they pick, just not the player. I think they will really regret trading that second pick for New Orleans 2nd pick and next years 1st. They had 2 players they could have drafted that would have filled huge holes in Mark Ingram or Muhammed Wilkerson the DE from Temple. This was a big swing and miss for the Patriots and they will be haunted about this for years.

Minnesota Vikings:
With the 12th pick they select Christian Ponder. Yea.... really? I know the Vikings needed a QB but this is a reach of epic proportions. If I were to reach on a QB I would have taken Andy Dalton, Ryan Mallet and even Colin Kaepernick over Ponder. I don't get it, they could have drafted Robert Quinn the DE from UNC or Mike Pouncey the G from Florida.

San Fransisco 49ers:
I think Aldon Smith was a little high. Cam Jordan, Nick Fairley or even JJ Watt would have better selections.

6 Red Sox, 2 Baltimore

It was a good game to win with the Sox losing the 2 previous games against the Orioles. The Sox had their the 2nd best pitcher on the mound and he rewarded the team with a great outing. After a shaky start Jon Lester was able to straighten out he yielded two runs on four hits, walked three and struck out five in 8 innings to go 3-1 on the year.

As for the offense it has been good to see Adrian starting to hit left and right. He went 3-5 with 2 rbis, Jacoby Ellsbury re payed the Sox for the lead off spot by going 3-5 with 2 rbis.

They went 6-3 on the road trip which is pretty good figuring they went 0-7 last road trip. They come home tonight to take on the Mariners.

Box Score

Chick Of The Day

It's Friday

With 7,8,9, 10 Picks In the NFL Draft

The 49ers take Aldon Smith DE Mizzou
The Titans take Jake Locker QB Washington
The Cowboys take Tyron Smith OT USC
The Jacksonville Jaguars Select Blaine Gabbert QB Mizzou

Aldon Smith will be a good quality pick.

But the Titans are badass select Jake Locker, people will say it is a reach but fuck that they get their guy and a winner type of guy. I think he will be real good, and I hope they throw him into the fire.

The Cowboys select an unsexy OT, he will probably good.

I'm not a good Blaine Gabbert guy, but this is a good selection, the charaide of David Garrard can only last so much. Gabbert has good size, is a good athlete but plays in a spread offense in college.

With The 6th Pick In The NFL Draft The Falcons Select...

Julio Jones, WR, Alabama

My favorite player in the draft. The Falcons offense is going to be sweet with Matt Ryan, Roddy White, Julio Jones and Michael Turner. He is a burner and has size at 6'4. I love this pick and thank god he didn't go to a faggy team so I can get his jersey.

Falcons gave the Browns

Trade details w/CLE: Falcons get 6th pick from Browns, give up 2011 1st (27), 2nd (59), 4th (124) & 2012 1st Rd & 4th Rd

With The 5th pick In The NFL Draft The Arizona Cardinals Select....

Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU

Best player on board. I liked him better than everybody else in the draft. Even though it's not a need position, he is still the best player available. I think he will be a shut down corner and make things a lot easier for the rest of the defense. Awesome pick.

With The 4th Pick In the NFL Draft The Cincinatti Bengals Select

AJ Green WR Georgia

I like Julio Jones better, but he is going to be a real good WR. 6'4, 220 and can catch the ball all over the place. Goes through the middle and can turn the jets on. If anything can convince Carson Palmer to stop being a douche, this should be it. What a great weapon to have.

With The 3rd Pick In The NFL Draft The Buffalo Bills Select

Macel Dareus DT Alabama

Did you watch him on sports science? He threw a man 12 feet in the air. It was amazing. This kid is a big guy up the middle and will help the non existent Buffalo Bills pass rush for years. He's not your average fat DT he can get after QB's great pick.

With The 2nd Pick In The NFL Draft The Denver Broncos Select....

Von Miller LB Texas A&M

Love it, Love it, Love it. This kid wears a visor like a motherfucker. Him along with DJ Williams and Elvis Dumerville will make an extremely quick DE, LB core. Miller is going to be very good and will be the defensive rookie of the year.

With The 1st Pick In The NFL Draft The Carolina Panthers Select...

Cam Newton, QB, Auburn

Easily the best smile in the draft. I'm not sure about this pick, but if your Carolina, Why the fuck not, ya know. Sure they drafted Jimmy Clausen last year, but he sucks and looks like he has no future(I've always hated him). Cam has a good arm and last year he proved he's more than your flash in the pan college player as he led Auburn to a national championship. Yesterday I didn't think it was a good pick, today I'm optimistic he will pan out and be pretty good.

Plus they compare him to the best QB in the league Ben Roethlisberger.

NFL Draft

Follow Dueling Couches on twitter tonight, for the latest picks, analysis, and douchebaggery...

to Join CLICK HERE

Draft starts at 8pm

Red Sox @ Orioles Preview

Nothing has been going right for the Red Sox this series. Their starting pitching (Beckett/Buchholz) hasn't been sharp, they aren't scoring runs, and even their bullpen has let them down.

Tonight we get the Red Sox ace Jon Lester on the hill, and one would hope he will do what an "ace" does, and that's stop losing streaks. Lester has never lost to the Orioles, he is currently 13-0 with a 2.33 ERA against them, which is pretty incredible. Against Lester will be Brad Bergesen, who is terrible (0-3 5.40). If the Red Sox don't crush him tonight you really have to question what the hell is wrong with their lineup.

I see a blowout tonight, and I think Lester will throw a gem, because...well he always does against the Orioles.

Red Sox 6-1
Player of the Game: Lester/Ortiz
Game starts at 7:05pm

Why Not?

Why not make America look stupid?

Hand washing - watch more funny videos

Here's A Quick Way To Get Fired

"Justin Quinn, 33, of Fresno said he was in the stands at AT&T Park in San Francisco during pregame batting practice with his wife and 9-year-old twin daughters when he noticed Roger McDowell (Atlanta Braves pitching coach) hectoring three men and asking them, "Are you guys a homo couple or a threesome?"

Quinn said McDowell proceeded to make crude sexual gestures with his hips and a bat.

Quinn, who was down in front of the field, then shouted, "Hey, there are kids out here," he said during a news conference at the Los Angeles office of noted attorney Gloria Allred.

Quinn alleged that the coach replied that kids don't belong at a baseball park, picked up a bat, walked up to Quinn and asked him, "How much are your teeth worth (ESPN)?"

Wow. I mean there is dumb, and then there is this. Did he really think that no one would complain about him making these remarks and gestures? Then on top of that say you are going to knock a fans teeth out that is at the game with his kids. Jesus, this guy had to been drunk or something. Either way, he should probably be suspended for the rest of the season, because that is so way over the line that I just don't see how he could ever justify it. The league shouldn't even have to step in here, the Braves should get rid of him ASAP, because this is a black eye to the entire organization.

"How much are your teeth worth" is a great line though...

Big Step Forward To End NFL Lockout

"The NFL told its 32 teams Thursday that, pending a ruling on its request that a "temporary stay" of the lower court's ruling lifting the lockout be granted, it should open their facilities to players at 8 a.m. ET on Friday.

Players will be allowed to meet with coaches and teams may distribute playbooks to players and begin OTA and minicamp practices, subject to rules from the last collective bargaining agreement. The NFL said on Friday it would advise its teams on rules for player transactions including the start of the "league year" when those moves can begin to take place (ESPN)."

This is huge, and a big sign that the NFL owners are going to start caving. Every ruling has gone against them, and now it just seems like a matter of time before some kind of deal is struck. From all of this I am 100% certain there will be football in 2011, and will go as far as to say it will be a full season. Thank god, and it will make the draft a lot more enjoyable tonight.

Ference To Be Suspended? (UPDATED)

"Defenseman Andrew Ference of the Boston Bruins could face supplemental discipline from the NHL following contact with Montreal Canadiens forward Jeff Halpern during Wednesday's Game 7. Nick Kypreos of Rogers Sportsnet:

"Word out of beantown is Bruins Ference blindside hit on Canadiens Halpern will lead to a suspension. NHL hearing is scheduled for Thurs."

The disciplinary hearing via phone is set for 11am. And although Bob McKenzie doesn't like the hit, the TSN analyst concedes the Bruins d-man does have an argument:

"Would imagine Ference's defence will be he never saw Halpern. Hearing doesn't guarantee suspension but league obviously didn't like it (ESPN)."

I go back and forth on this. I have watched the hit a couple times and I think I've decided he went to do it, but I also think Halpern embellished the shit out of the hit. I mean he acted like he got hit by freight train, and yet was on the ice only a couple mins later. I don't think Ference should be suspended, but I do think he should get yet another fine (the first one for flipping off the Habs' fans). I could also see him getting 1 game, because of his general douchebaggery during the series.

***UPDATE***

"Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli told reporters Thursday that defenseman Andrew Ference will not be suspended for his collision with Canadiens forward Jeff Halpern in the third period of Boston's 4-3 overtime win over Montreal Wednesday (WEEI)."

Good.

Peyton Hillis Wins Madden Cover

"ESPN.com users have spoken, and the face of Madden NFL 12 will be Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis. Hillis was announced Wednesday as the winner of the fan vote, under way since March 21, on "SportsNation" on ESPN2. In all, almost 13 million votes were cast -- including more than 1 million in the final (ESPN)."

You know what? Good for Cleveland and good for Peyton Hillis. About time something went well for them, and I hope they all enjoy it, because there are more dark clouds on the horizon. The Madden curse has a great shot at living on. I guarantee Hillis will have less then 800 yards next season (1,177 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2010). I was actually pumped not to see a Patriot or Aaron Rodgers on the cover, so the "curse" wouldn't expand to teams I like.

Hillis beat out Vick, does it make any sense? No, not really, but he looks way more badass on the cover then the one they had of Vick. Plus, it was already nonsense when guys like Rodgers, Andre Johnson, Adrian Peterson, ect lost out.

Rumor: Patriots Trading Up To 6th Pick?

"According to a report from Greg Bedard of the Boston Globe, the Patriots have had trade discussions with the Browns about the No. 6 overall pick in Thursday's NFL draft. Citing a league source, Bedard reports that the Patriots -- owners of the No. 17 and No. 28 picks in the first round and the first pick of the second round, No. 33 overall -- may want to move up (WEEI)."

Would love to see this, as it is rumored that they would be going after Robert Quinn, who is the exact kind of player the Patriots need on their defense. He is one of those hybrid OLB/DE, which we know Belichick loves, because it gives him a lot of options with his game planning. Haven't really heard much about him? Well because he didn't play last year, he was ruled ineligible by the NCAA for lying to investigators about receiving travel accommodations and jewelry... Cool whatever, thsi guy was a beast in 2009 with 11 sacks (at age 19!).

When scouts try to compare him to someone in the NFL they compare him to Julius Peppers, that good enough for me. Still, I put the probablity of this happening kind of low, just because it is very rare to see the Patriots trade up that high in the draft (if at all). So unless, Belichick really has his eye on this guy it sounds like just another rumor. But I can dream....can't I?

Why Not?

Why not watch a tornado rip through the south.

So It's The Heat

So it's the matchup we have been waiting for all year. Celtics vs Heat. LeBron coming back since his game 6 collapse when he played in Cleveland. Which means emotions will be high, you will be able to cut tension with a knife and you will hear a lot of clever LeBron/ Mom references.

Rondo will be his annoying self, KG is bound to get in Bosh's ear, and Wade will continue to look puzzled by the Celtics defense. Here is the schedule:
Game 1: @ Miami - Sunday 5/1: 3:30 pm
Game 2: @ Miami - Tuesday 5/3: TBD
Game 3: @ Boston - Saturday 5/7 - 8pm
Game 4: @ Boston - Monday 5/9 - TBD
Game 5 (if necessary): @ Miami - Wednesday 5/11 TBD
Game 6 (if necessary): @ Boston - Friday 5/13 TBD
Game 7 (if necessary): @ Miami - Monday 5/16 8pm

I'm not worried about having home court advantage as the Celtics seem to play as good or better on the road than at home.

Our Mock Drafts

DP's:
1. Carolina Panthers: MARCELL DAREUS DT Alabama
2. Denver Broncos: Nick Fairley DT Auburn
3. Buffalo Bills: Blaine Gabbert QB Mizzou
4. Cincinnati Bengals: AJ Green WR Georgia
5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller OLB Texas A&M
6. Cleveland Browns: Da'Quan Bowers DE Clemson
7. San Fransisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson CB LSU
8. Tennessee Titans: Cam Newton QB Auburn
9. Dallas Cowboys: Robert Quinn DE UNC
10. Washington Redskins: Jake Locker QB Washington
11. Houston Texans: Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska
12. Minnesota Vikings: J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin
13. Detroit Lions: Tyron Smith, OT, USC
14. St. Louis Rams: Muhammad Wilkerson, DE, Temple
15. Miami Dolphins: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Aldon Smith, DE/OLB, Mizzou
17. New England Patriots: Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue
18. San Diego Chargers: Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
19. New York Giants: Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Akeem Ayers, LB, UCLA
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Brooks Reed, DE, Arizona
22. Indianapolis Colts: Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
23. Philadelphia Eagles: Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
24. New Orleans Saints: Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois
25. Seattle Seahawks: Christian Ponder, QB, Florida State
26. Baltimore Ravens: Brandon Harris, CB, Miami
27. Atlanta Falcons: Bruce Carter, OLB, UNC
28. New England Patriots: Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
29. Chicago Bears: Jonathan Baldwin, WR, Pitt
30. New York Jets: Phil Taylor, NT, Baylor
31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Pouncey, OG, Florida
32. Green Bay Packers: Marcus Cannon, OL, TCU



BMack:
1. Carolina Panthers: Blaine Gabbert QB Mizzou
2. Denver Broncos: MARCELL DAREUS DT Alabama
3. Buffalo Bills: Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
4. Cincinnati Bengals: AJ Green WR Georgia
5. Arizona Cardinals: Von Miller OLB Texas A&M
6. Cleveland Browns: Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn
7. San Fransisco 49ers: Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
8. Tennessee Titans: Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
9. Dallas Cowboys: J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin
10. Washington Redskins: Julio Jones, WR, Alabama
11. Houston Texans: Robert Quinn, DE, North Carolina
12. Minnesota Vikings: Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri
13. Detroit Lions: Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska
14. St. Louis Rams: Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois
15. Miami Dolphins: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Cameron Jordan, DE, California
17. New England Patriots: Muhammad Wilkerson, DE, Temple
18. San Diego Chargers: Akeem Ayers, LB, UCLA
19. New York Giants: Mike Pouncey, OL, Florida
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ryan Kerrigan, DE/OLB, Purdue
21. Kansas City Chiefs: Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor
22. Indianapolis Colts: Tyron Smith, OT, USC
23. Philadelphia Eagles: Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
24. New Orleans Saints: Brooks Reed, DE, Arizona
25. Seattle Seahawks: Jake Locker, QB, Washington
26. Baltimore Ravens: Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
27. Atlanta Falcons: Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
28. New England Patriots: Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
29. Chicago Bears: Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin
30. New York Jets: Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State
31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Danny Watkins, OG, Baylor
32. Green Bay Packers: Justin Houston, LB, Georgia

5 Baltimore, 4 Red Sox

Well that was a little bit of a kick in the nuts. After the Bruins won in OT, you thought that the magic would work with the Sox, especially since they were able to tie a 4-0 deficit thanks to a Gonzalez RBI and a Youk 3 run homerun in the 8th.

But then Nick Markakis opened the Baltimore eighth with a single off Daniel Bard, and Derrek Lee followed with a single to left. Both moved up on a passed ball by Jason Queeratek, and with Guerrero at the plate, Markakis was thrown out trying to score on a pitch that passed the Captain again. Vlad then bounced the ball passed the pitcher, the Orioles took the 5-4 lead and that was all the Orioles needed.

Beckett regressed a little from his stellar starts by letting up 4 runs, 7 hits, in 6 innings. I wouldn't look too much into it, shit happens. Also, I hate losing to the Rex Ryan of baseball Buck Showalter, I hope he goes to the hell.

Box Score

Bruins 4, Canadiens 2 (OT)

It was a little over a minute a minute after Horton scored the game-winner when I realized that I hadn't been breathing since the goal was scored. I was that excited, that relieved, that exhausted.

Now to the game. It was far from pretty for either team. Or for the refs. There was finally a goal scored while the Bruins had a man advantage. Unfortunately, it went the wrong way. The Canadiens dove a few times, got a few calls, but were eventually hurt by a dive. Then one of the Bruins' leaders made a silly mistake, the Habs capitalized, and to Overtime it went.

But it was Nathan Horton, a newcomer to the playoffs, who scored the winning goal. He scored 3 times in the series, and was the only first-liner to really imprint himself on this series. In the regular season, when Horton was scoring, the Bruins were nearly unstoppable. When he slumped, they had to grind games out. In other words, he's a key to the Bruins' success.

Beating the Canadiens is just extra sweet. Not only is it a rivalry with tons of history, but the Canadiens play a completely different style of hockey from the rest of the NHL. Habs fans bitch and moan about other teams playing dirty, not "playing hockey the right way," then the Canadiens dive and flop like a bunch of Brazilian soccer players. That's not hockey being played the right way. It was perfect justice that Hamrlik dove to steal a call, and Kelly took advantage of the 5-on-4 to score.

PK Subban is a hell of a hockey player. But his diving is just an embarrassment. He's a strong dude. Yet David Krejci apparently can manhandle him. So can Gregory Campbell. It's just sad to watch a talented player like that resort to such childish tactics.

While I'm thrilled to eliminate the Canadiens, there's still plenty of room for improvement that needs to be addressed by the time the Flyers series starts. The Power Play actually got worse last night. Not only did they fail to score, they allowed a goal.

The nature of the shorthanded goal was what pissed me off. The Bruins struggled with entry, so they tried a gadget play. Seidenberg's supposed to back-pass to Recchi in the center, which will cause the Montreal defenders to stand up at the blue-line. But Montreal was going to yield entry. There was no need for the trickery. And it was incorrectly timed anyway. The pass came too early, Recchi couldn't handle it, and Montreal tied the game with a shorthanded goal.

The Bruins are the first team to ever win a 7 game series without scoring on the Power Play.

Bergeron's penalty was also inexcusable. 180+ feet from his own net, late in a game, with a 1 goal lead, he doesn't need to be flailing his stick around like that.

The first line needs to show up. The big players need to make big plays. Krejci is useless. He had another golden opportunity tonight, with half a net to shoot at, but his backhander went way over the crossbar. Lucic made a smart pass to find Horton for the game-winner, but he's still floating, still waiting around for something to happen. He needs to make things happen. He used to seek contact. Now he's almost avoiding it.

The Power Play and first line need to contribute. The defense can't afford anymore giveaways. The Flyers are better than the Canadiens. Much better. Sure, the Flyers' goaltending is questionable, but their forwards are relentless. The Canadiens were dangerous on the PP and on the counter-attack. The Flyers are ALWAYS dangerous.

I'll revel in this victory for a few days. But the Flyers are next. Improvements need to be made. Meanwhile, the Canadiens can...

-The Commodore

Chick Of The Day

Bruins Girls

Canadiens @ Bruins: Game 7 Preview

For Game 6 I gave you a bunch of stats of why the Bruins would win the game, while also stating I had a really bad feeling about it. For tonight I give you the exact opposite. I have a bunch of reasons why the Bruins are going to lose this game, yet I feel like they are going to come through.

This is the 8th time the Bruins are playing the Canadiens in a Game 7, and overall it hasn't gone well for the Bruins losing 5 of 7 including the last two (2004 and 2008). Chara has never won a Game 7, and Montreal is 6-1 when facing elimination since the start of last years playoffs. Meanwhile, the Bruins lost every Game 7 since ousting Montreal in Game 7 of the first round of the 1994 playoffs, losing the last 4 series that reached the finale.

Ok, so yea we should feel terrible about tonight, but for some reason I don't. I think Boston is going to come out hitting and we are going to see them play a lot more like the team that kicked the shit out of the Canadiens back on March 24th when they blew them out 7-0. Lucic has to come out with a chip on his shoulder after what happened last game, and he was the one who had 2 goals in game 7 against Philly last year (I know not the game I wanted to talk about, but it's true).

So, yes I can't give you a bunch of stats that say why the Bruins will win tonight, but I am expecting them to, and to do it in grand fashion.

Bruins win 5-1
Player of the Game: Lucic
Game starts at 7pm

Red Sox @ Orioles Preview

The Red Sox got exposed last night by yet another left hander last night, the good news is tongiht they go against a righty. I don't feel like I have been able to say that a lot this year, but Jeremy Guthrie on the hill I expect the Red Sox lineup to come alive. Not just because he is a righty, but because he is 1-7 against the Sox with a 4.94 ERA.

Beckett is on the hill for Boston, and he has been fucking awesome this year (2-1 1.93 ERA), if he is back to being the old Beckett the Sox (and their fans) are in for a treat tonight. Overall Beckett has had pretty good success against Baltimore going 6-3 with a 3.53 ERA). I think tonight you are going to see a bunch of strikeouts for Beckett, because the Orioles have a bunch of guys that are "free swingers" (Vlad, Reynolds, Lee, Jones, ect).

Boston bounced back tonight with a big win, and I am hoping to see the long ball tonight for guys like Ortiz and Gonzalez.

Red Sox win 8-1
Player of the Game: Beckett/Gonzalez
Game starts at 7:05pm

Why Not?

Why not find out why this guy won't be having kids?

No balls - watch more funny videos

Longoria Nears Return

"Evan Longoria's long-awaited return to the Tampa Bay Rays' lineup is now set for Tuesday against Toronto, barring any setbacks, reports Marc Topkin of the St. Pete Times. Longoria, who has been on the disabled list since the first week of the season with a left oblique strain, took batting practice in the cage again Tuesday and will start a short rehab assignment with Double-A Montgomery on Thursday (ESPN)."

Much has been made about the Red Sox turnaround, but the Rays have also been playing a lot better after a very slow start (7-3 in their last 10 games). That's pretty impressive since they have had to do it without Longoria in their lineup. The Rays have the pitching staff to be a very good team, but I still question (even with a health Longoria) if they have the lineup to challenge for the top spots in the AL East.

Fuck the Whole Pick By Pick, The Draft Is Tomorrow

DP's Picks:
24. NO: Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois
25. Sea: Christian Ponder, QB, Florida State
26. Balt: Brandon Harris, CB, Miami
27. Atl: Bruce Carter, OLB, UNC
28. NE: Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
29. Chi: Jonathan Baldwin, WR, Pitt
30. NYJ: Phil Taylor, NT, Baylor
31. Pitt: Mike Pouncey, OG, Florida
32. GB: Marcus Cannon, OL, TCU

BMack's Picks:
24. NO: Brooks Reed, DE, Arizona
Fills the need at DE for the Saints, and adds a good pass rusher to a team that really needs one.

25. Sea: Jake Locker, QB, Washington
I like Mallet a lot, but with all the questions surrounding being a booze bag and what not I think Seattle takes a pass. I also like Locker a lot and if Seattle can bring back Matt Hasselbeck for one more year I think he could be real good.

26. Balt: Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado
Ravens need to improve thier defensive backfield, and Smith could end up being the 2nd best CB in this draft.

27. Atl: Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa
Was projected to be a top 15 pick last year, but dropped in this years rankings (nerve damage/5 less sack then 2010), could be a steal this late in the first round.

28. NE: Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
Dude is huge (6-foot-8 319 pounds), and the Patriots could be very thin on the OL depending on what happens with the CBA/free agency.

29. Chi: Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin
The Bears have to find a way to protect Cutler, this is a good start,

30. NYJ: Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State
Big, strong pass rusher is exactly what the Jets need, but what makes him special is he is great against the run.

31. Pitt: Danny Watkins, OG, Baylor
Not a sexy pick, but lets be honest the Steelers have to find a way to protect Big Ben.

32. GB: Justin Houston, LB, Georgia
Gives the Packers another OLB pass rushing option other then just Matthews. Houston is also versitle, and could eventually be a DE, another need for the Packers.

Do The Red Sox Have A Poorly Setup Lineup?

We have been waiting for awhile now for the Red Sox lineup to explode, and yet here we are still waiting. Yes, the Red Sox went on a nice winning streak, but that was caused by a hot rotation, and even if the Sox rotation turns out to be this good all season they aren't going anywhere if this lineup doesn't get it's shit together.

As of today, the Sox are 21st in the MLB in runs, and 23rd in batting average. Sure they are 9th in on base percentage, but that just shows the lack of clutch hitting the Sox are getting. DP made the comment last night that the Sox current 7-8 hitters (Drew/Crawford) are making right around $30 million combined. The result? 2 HRs 11 RBI. I'll give Drew some credit his batting average has been fine (.276), but Crawford's "adjustment time" shouldn't be taking this long. It's not like what's going on with Adam Dunn where there is an adjustment because he is switching leagues, I mean shit Crawford isn't even switching divisions.

Even Gonzalez isn't doing what we expected... yet. He only has 1 HR, and while he seems to be hitting "OK", you have to question a little bit if his power was zapped at all by his offseason surgery. I am still not concerned about him yet, as just watching him you can tell he is a great hitter, and unlike Crawford, doesn't look far off.

The thing everyone is going to go back to is not resigning V-Mart. At first, I was really pissed off when they let him go, but I obviously shut up after they signed Crawford and Gonzalez. Yet, I am starting to come back to it. I don't get this "Theo Love" with Salty. The guy has failed everywhere he has been. He's never shown anything, and isn't good defensively either (as was the complaint against V-Mart). I also remember "Theo Love" for Lugo and JD Drew.

We are already spending a shit load of money, and that really can't be the reason for not bringing V-Mart back, and with Ortiz on borrowed time V-Mart would have been a nice DH for the future. Saying that, I get it, you can't have players making top dollar at every position, but you have to question Theo for not signing Russell Martin (.306 BA, 6 HRs, 16 RBIs). Yes, he was an injury risk, but wasn't Salty just a huge risk in general, especially with a rapidly aging catching as the backup?

Even with all that I still think the Sox are going to get on a roll at some point offensively. Gonzalez will hit, Crawford isn't this bad, Ortiz usually gets better as it gets warmer. Yet, I also think there are going to be big holes in this lineup, because I am losing faith in Ellsbury by the day. Worst thing that happened is him was hitting a couple HRs, because he should be a slap ball hitter looking to use his speed. Basically watch Major League II, and think "yea, he's got the Willie Mays Hayes" problem. On top of that, unless they make some kind of major move, this catcher situation is only going to get worse and I am still holding out what we are exactly going to get with Jed Lowrie. Plus, you know JD is DL bound soon enough.

They also need to figure out what the hell they are going to do against lefties. Ortiz, Drew, Ellsbury are completely useless against lefties, which when added to the no catcher situation can be a serious problem.

I am not ready to hit the panic button by any means. I love how this rotation is lining up, and I think that even though they have their faults this bullpen is solid enough. I also think in a lot of ways they will end up hitting better, but there are some obvious holes, and I just don't know if they are going to be able to plug all of them.

Why Not?

Why not watch a man get shot?

Albert Hayensworth In Trouble

Albert Haynesworth could be jailed for six months and fined $1,000 if convicted for sexual assault to a waitress. Apparently he fondled her breasts at a restaurant and thats a big no no apparently.

Hayensworth is not a good person. He has a lot of baggage surrounding him and has been a major headache to not only the Redskins but society. If I were the Redskins the 1st thing I would do would be cut this bum when they are allowed to. He obviously doesn't care about anything other than money, Redskins should rid themselves of this headache.

It's Alright Kentucky Will Be Fine

Kentucky may be losing DeAndre Liggins, Scott Harrelson, Terrence Jones, and Brandon Knight but all is good in Lexington as 4 of the top recruits will be joinging Doron Lamb in the quest for a 2012 championship.

Kentucky is getting:
Anthony Davis a 6'9 PF
Michael Gilchrist a 6'6 SF
Marquis Teague a 6'1 PG
Kyle Wiltjer a 6'9 C

So there you have it, a replacement for everyone leaving. Also there is no guarantee that Liggins will stay in the draft.

I know this is wishful thinking with UNC being a powerhouse next year, and Duke getting Austin Rivers. But fuck it, calling it now, Kentucky is winning the championship.

4 Orioles, 1 Red Sox

It's not like Zack Britton pitched a great game against the Sox he pitched 6 innings let up 5 hits, 1er, 2bb, 2ks but he kept the red hot Red Sox offense at bay. He became the first rookie starter in franchise history to win four games in April. He has an impressive 2.84 ERA and owns nearly half of Baltimore's nine victories this year. Meanwhile, Clay Buchholz continues to struggle this year as he let up 12 hits and 4 runs in 6.2 innings.

Adam Jones drove in two runs for the Orioles, who won for only the third time in 14 games, and Vladimir Guerrero had his first three-hit game since coming to Baltimore as a free agent during the offseason.

Youk drove in the only run for the Sox. It was a pretty boring game to be honest.

Canadiens 2, Bruins 1

NESN's Andy Brickley (whom I'm a big fan of) remarked that he didn't think the better team won last night. I don't know what game he saw, but I didn't see the Bruins as being the better team. Montreal didn't really dominate, but they never screwed up, never gave the Bruins big chances, and when the B's had opportunities, they were squandered. The Habs were the better team.

This game was questionably officiated. While I understand Lucic getting a minor, even a major, for what he did, I don't see how an ejection was justified. Lucic and the Bruins get punished because Spacek put himself in a vulnerable spot and Lucic didn't hold back a check. How many times have we seen the Canadiens pull back a check in this series?

Then again, what has Lucic done in this series? Was his absence the difference in this game? I don't think so.

The Bruins cost themselves a number of penalties on their own. Too many men. Later, a delay of game. These are perhaps the most avoidable penalties of all, and yet the Bruins committed them, and both led to 5-on-3 goals.

And let's not forget that the refs screwed up a call that would have resulted in a Canadiens goal. If anything, the Bruins got a bit of luck in this game.

Then the B's own Power Play, which continues to struggle. The Bruins are the only team in the playoffs not to score a PP goal. Think about that. Multiple teams are already eliminated, and they all scored a PP goal. Poor entry, poor possession, that's been the story with the Bruins on the man advantage.

Under Julien, the Bruins are now 2-8 when they can eliminate their opponent. That's 2-8 against teams they've already beaten three times. Julien, in his career, is 1-3 in Game 7s. I'm more than a little worried. Game 7 tonight.

-The Commodore

Proceed With Caution

Maybe this is a personal rant.
Maybe it’s a thought-provoking look at our culture. 
Maybe I’m just too much of a cynic.

The NFL Draft is approaching.  This is a time full of excitement, anticipation, and hope for every NFL team even when no game is available to ‘win’.   Each year, players' ratings will ebb and flow mysteriously after the end of the last NCAA game without a single snap being played.  Unfortunately, in the culture we live in, media presence (and presentation) is a fact of life. 

In the age of 24-7 information streams the sports networks are compelled to deliver some type of information, anything to fill the vacuum of air time or unused picas.  “Analysts” have to put together some type of cogent thought together on players or teams, otherwise they aren’t providing anything for you to pay attention to.  They will use empty, overused clichés that come off like one-size-fits-all-horoscope readings.  Baffling you with enough bullshit to fill their segment because when you get down to it, life isn’t really about simple dichotomies or good/bad decisions, but who has time for details or nuance?

I get that.  It is what it is.  They are all selling you something and most often it is just advertising space for their media outlet.  Now, I’m not critiquing sportswriters and the like, for the content they have to deliver. The economics of it all dictate that they appeal to the lowest common denominator of their consumer demographics.   As long as you understand the motivations behind what is being delivered, you can keep a solid perspective.  The problem arises when the surge of ‘presentation’ overwhelms substance.  To illicit the next viewer/reader share, you have to rapidly produce more quantity and become boisterous to keep the consumer's attention.  The more an idea is repeated, no matter how retarded or thoughtless, the more likely that idea will be accepted as normal. 

With this prologue complete and all my caveats offered, I’d like to address a recent comment made by the rising ‘authority’ on NFL prospects, Mike Mayock.  I’m not Mayock’s biggest fan because he can really drown people in clichés and bullshit over-inflected jargon without providing much information leaving with you the impression you’re listening to an insurance salesman.  That said, he’s good for the NFL, good for broadcasting, good for the draft experience and he’s not Theisman, Kornheiser, or the joke that has become Jaworski & Hoge.

While appearing on the BooYah Bloviation Radio Network, Mayock offered up “gut feelings” on Cam Newton…

 "It's just this gut feeling I have that I don't know how great he wants to be. "

"What it really comes down to .. is football IQ and work ethic. And if he wants to be the best quarterback in the game, I'm all in. I love it.”

"But something tells me that he'll be content to be a multi-millionaire who's pretty good. And that doesn't get it done for me."

Now, bear in mind, I’m not advocating for Cam Newton as the top pick, or even top quarterback prospect.  There is a world of difference between being a dominating playmaker in college and becoming a multi-million dollar investment for an NFL franchise.  Newton may very well fit Mayock’s perception entirely, however, without being able to cite any quantifiable evidence, this comes off as something short of product tampering.  Pointing out flaws in technique, physical ability, other metrics, or pointing to specific game situations to prove your point would be great.  Shooting from the hip with intuition of “I think this player is a douche bag” or "I can't prove it, but this guy will quit on you" hypotheticals , isn’t really an evaluation worthy of the title, “analyst”.

Again, I’m not an advocate for Newton, but when other writers participate in the same kind of shenanigans and pettiness such as PFT

“Very disingenuous – has a fake smile, comes off as very scripted and has a selfish, me-first makeup. Always knows where the cameras are and plays to them. Has an enormous ego with a sense of entitlement that continually invites trouble and makes him believe he is above the law – does not command respect from teammates and will always struggle to win a locker room…Lacks accountability, focus and trustworthiness – is not punctual, seeks shortcuts and sets a bad example. Immature and has had issues with authority. Not dependable.”

Or sports journalism’s equivalent to a blow up doll, Peter King, offering these non-contextual comments with a pointed assertion in mind…

Newton: "I see myself not only as a football player, but an entertainer and icon.'' Ron Rivera, Chan Gailey, John Harbaugh blanch.

 
If any of those comments could be quantified in performance metrics – cool. Otherwise, it comes off like junior high pettiness.

I use those terms because I am increasingly finding it hard to believe that these sports writers (much like movie critics and production house junkets) aren’t becoming lobbied puppets of sports agents.  It would be the next logical, Machiavellian step for the big business of sports representation efforts.  All it takes is one guy to be influenced and now that narrative is what has become the leading story (that other reporters will repeat).

The only reason I bring this up is because I almost posted this last year when Mayock, unsolicited, repeatedly gushed over and again about how Jimmy Clausen was the one and only quarterback prospect in 2010 (even before Notre Dame’s pro day, despite what Clausen’s college career had contradicted Mayock’s narrative).  If you were an agent garnering a small percentage of those first year contracts, why wouldn’t you attempt to grease the wheels of the market in your favor?  
 
One might suggest that the ‘best players will always play’ and the NFL will expose the frauds.  The problem with this is that the NFL, by in large, is a kabuki theatre representation of the sport.  So much of what takes place on Sunday afternoons is the product of hype and bluster.  Are the players elite athletes and phenomenal at their roles? no question about it.  The issue is that the pro game is about selling PSLs, popcorn, and super bowl ads, not necessarily about providing the very best in sport performances.  The sports media conglomerates and the NFL work in concert to sell the entertainment. It becomes an economy of mass media. After all, compare how much you have heard representatives from the NFL front office weigh in on the lockout compared to how many times you’ve actually heard the player’s side of the labor dispute.
 
The athletes are men, not iconic legends.  The drama that climaxes through a 3 hour game (much like another form of entertainment, a movie), while broadcast teams force a script of personalities (“Favre vs Sapp”, ”Manning vs Manning”, etc) is meant to be something visceral every viewer can identify with in some way. 

Meaning, if you can sell people on the product (of personalities), the marquee players can remain viable in the market (sell jerseys, Fatheads, and Gatorade).   Practice time in the NFL is extremely limited.  If you're not a starter (on the limited roster), you're probably not getting any reps.  The days of developing a player on your roster have been long gone and with each rep in these team activities gives little hope for a small school player from making a roster.  If you’re a coach, do you risk your job on that ACC quarterback that really is a piece of shit or that promising guy from William & Mary? What are you going to tell your GM? What is that GM going to have to sell to the media?  Which if you lived in any of those brutal sports markets like Chicago, New York, or Philly….well….then you understand just how fast things can go from sour to rotten.

To better illustrate this point, I’ll paraphrase a fellow coach, who still has many friends coaching in the NFL when he articulated his thoughts a few years ago on what the “pro game” and the draft has become.

“… in so many words, basically acknowledged that NFL personnel departments are leery about taking on ESPN, especially on draft day.  The belief is that the media creates stars and pretty much forces teams into drafting them regardless of whether they are a good match for the NFL game.

One of the things that both [former NFL coordinator] and my other friend [NFL coach] mentioned was that they pretty much know who can play, regardless of level. Case in point: he worked Graham Harrell out and walked away very impressed. Basically said that he had an average NFL arm, but one that because of his anticipation and understanding of when and where receivers are going into their breaks was more than sufficient. The front office would not hear of drafting him, however, especially ahead of Freeman even though he thought that Freeman had the potential to be another JaMarcus Russell.  The front office, however, simply did not want to risk the nightmare that would descend on [franchise headquarters] when Mel Kiper, Todd McShay and all the other hacks began to call Harrell another system QB. In short there just is no stomach.

You might find this interesting, but both [coaches] knew that Vince Young was going to be a bust.  [coach ] is really close with Norm and basically said that he dreaded showing up to work with the Titans, because coaching the kid (VY) is an impossible task. Not only was he poorly coached at Texas (and neither has much regard for Greg Davis), but he simply does not have the intellectual hardware needed to play the position. When he was at UT he was basically making A-B reads off of one defender.

I’m excited for the players who get to realize a dream this weekend.  I’m happy that NFL franchises will get to acquire new talent and improve the product they put out on the field this Fall.  With that in mind, take it all in stride (especially what's offered by Kiper, McShay, Mayock, and the rest), because its all bullshit. 

additional readings worth checking out
http://davepear.com/blog/2011/05/covenant-between-fans-and-sports-is-a-facade/

Ceeeelebrate good times.

One year has come and gone. I've enjoyed even the tiniest details. 

  To celebrate we went on a mini getaway. We stayed in Salt lake for a night and in the morning we headed to our favorite spot, where it all happened. The Jordan River LDS Temple. 

   We were able to take part in sealings which I've never done before. How grateful I am for the opportunity to do temple work for those who have passed on. 

Afterwards we got a bite to eat. The Spaghetti Factory in Taylorsville is where we had our luncheon a year ago, it tasted even better this year without the worry of putting together a reception in a small amount of time. 

To say that life has been good to me this last year would be an understatement. I'm honestly happier than I have ever been, the Lord truly knows me. 

Here is to another year of total bliss. 

I still get butterflies when someone calls me Mrs. Carter or Colby's wife.  :) 

Bruins @ Canadiens Game 6 Preview

I hate to say it, but this series seems to be destined to go 7 games. I predicted it would go 6, and I'll stick with that, but every time these two teams meet in the playoffs it seems to go 7 games.

There are some stats that I can give you that will make you think the Bruins will win. Thomas has won his last 4 road playoff games, while Price has lost something like his last 8 at home in the playoffs. Yet, do you feel all that confident? I wish I did, but when you see a team that is 0-15 on the powerplay, and were saved by some incredible Tim Thomas saves in overtimes to stop them from being down 3-2 in the series.

Then again, maybe lady luck is finally on the Bruins side (Ryder glove save, several post saves, ect). They are supposed to be the better team, so they should get it done. I just don't seem them getting through this game unless Lucic/Krejci line gets going. They need to step up for Boston to have an affective offense. We can shit on Kaberle all we want for the terrible powerplay, but those guys are the key to that unit and if Lucic isn't crashing the net, and making life miserable for Price, then what are we expecting Kaberle to do? I am not excusing Kaberle's play, but I am even more disappointed in Lucic.

Like I said before I am picking the Bruins, because I said this series would go 6 games, but I can't sit here and say I am overly confident about the game tonight.

Bruins win 3-2 (OT)
Player of the Game: Tim Thomas
Game starts at 7pm